Whether you are a cyclist, motorcyclist or motorist you will be aware of the damage potholes can do. Cyclists can be dismounted by potholes, sometimes with fatal consequences, whilst motorcyclists swerve to avoid them and motorists have to deal with expensive repairs to their vehicles after repeated jolts from deep potholes.

The government has allocated £4.7bn for road repairs which is to be shared between 115 councils, and a further £575m fund to repair and maintain local highway infrastructure such as junctions, bridges and street lighting. This is good news at last for those who live and work in the Northwest after Councils were allocated £625 million to repair the roads.

Chester West and Chester Council has bid and successfully won a five year grant of £41 million pounds to help repair some of the 732,000 potholes currently plaguing the boroughs roads. Government figures suggest it costs just over £56 to fill one of the holes, which are caused by water damage, extreme weather and general wear and tear and CWAC, (Cheshire West And Chester council) will get £8 million a year.

A Council spokesperson said: “Roads play a significant part in everyday life. Poorly maintained local roads, blighted by potholes, are a menace to all road users, particularly during the festive period as people travel to see family and friends.

“It is vital we have good quality roads. This government has already taken strong action by spending £1 billion more on local roads maintenance than was spent in the previous parliament.

“The £625 million funding for the North West will put an end to short-term fixes and will mean we have committed £10 billion between 2010 and 2021.”

Executive director of the Highways Term Maintenance Association (HTMA) and advocate for the Highways Agency Efficiency Programme, said: “We congratulate the transport secretary in taking the step of introducing an incentive element from 2016/17 into the local highways maintenance funding for councils.

“Those that can show they truly understand the value of their asset can plan greater efficiencies and deliver cost-effective, preventative maintenance, making the available money go even further.”

Potholes are a source of great annoyance for cyclists and can be extremely dangerous if travelling at speed or in busy traffic. Councils have a duty to ensure road surfaces are safe for ALL road users to use.

If you have been injured in as a result of hitting a pothole or know someone who has, then contact our specialist solicitors today on 01625 506655 to discuss your circumstances. We are experts in accidents involving cyclists and can talk you through your potential compensation claim.